Lindsaea spp.
lindsaea fern
Pantropical, mainly Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and tropical America
Overview
Lindsaea spp. is a genus of about 150 to 200 fern species in the family Lindsaeaceae, distributed mainly through the tropics and subtropics of the world, with the greatest diversity in Southeast Asia, the Pacific, and tropical America. Most are small to medium terrestrial ferns of forest floors, streambanks, and clearings, though some grow on rock or as low climbers. Fronds are typically 6-36 inches (15-90 cm) long, once- to several-times divided, with wedge- or fan-shaped segments that give a lacy outline. The genus is recognized by its sori, which run along the outer leaf margins and are covered by a flap-like indusium that opens outward toward the edge. Lindsaea spp. grows in warm, humid, shaded to partly shaded conditions in moist, free-draining, acidic soils rich in leaf litter. Most species are frost-tender and need consistent moisture and humidity, declining in dry air or full sun. They spread by short to creeping rhizomes, forming small colonies. Many species are restricted to specific tropical habitats and are uncommon in cultivation.
Native Range
Lindsaea spp. species are native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, with centers of diversity in Southeast Asia, Malesia, the Pacific islands, and tropical America, and a few species reaching warm-temperate Australia and eastern Asia. They grow on shaded forest floors, streambanks, and rocky slopes.Suggested Uses
Grown as foliage ferns in shaded tropical gardens, greenhouses, conservatories, and terrariums where warmth and humidity are maintained. The smaller species suit humid container and terrarium plantings, while larger species are used as understory groundcover in frost-free shade.How to Identify
Growing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Lindsaea spp. grows in warm, humid, shaded to partly shaded positions in moist, free-draining, acidic soil rich in leaf mould. Consistent moisture and high humidity sustain healthy fronds, while dry air, drought, and direct sun cause browning and frond loss. Most species are frost-tender and suited only to tropical and frost-free subtropical climates or to greenhouse and terrarium culture. A loose, organic medium and steady warmth above 50F (10C) support growth. Stagnant, waterlogged soil rots the rhizomes.Pruning
Old, browned, or damaged fronds are removed at the base to keep growth fresh and reduce fungal problems. No other regular pruning is needed. Spent fronds can be cleared in spring as new growth unfurls.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons